N.W.T. gov’t to set up temporary camp as Yellowknife shelters struggle to meet need

The N.W.T. government is planning a temporary on-the-land camp in Yellowknife to address a severe shortage of shelter space. The camp, intended as a “bridging mechanism,” aims to alleviate the pressure on overcapacity shelters like the Salvation Army and Yellowknife Women’s Society, which have been forced to turn people away. Shelter directors have secured funding for additional beds, but the demand still exceeds supply. Housing Minister Lucy Kuptana expressed concern over the hardship faced by people living on the streets and the need for sustainable housing solutions.

The camp, which could resemble the one set up at Aurora Village during the COVID-19 pandemic, will provide a safe, temporary place for individuals until more permanent transitional housing is available. The government hopes these long-term solutions will be ready by early 2025, though details and approvals are still pending. Kuptana emphasized that the project is still in progress, with the bulk of funding coming from the territorial government. She also highlighted the need for a mix of housing options, including public housing and transitional homes, while continuing support for shelters. Some people, Kuptana noted, prefer shelters due to fewer daily responsibilities, so a range of choices will be offered.

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